Actor Lee Byung-hun’s recent remarks have resurfaced as a hot topic of discussion.
On December 8, Lee Byung-hun participated in an interview at a café in Jongno, Seoul, regarding Netflix’s Squid Game 2. The interview, covered by various outlets including Ilgan Sports, delved into controversies surrounding the highly anticipated series.
Addressing the controversies, Lee remarked, “The fact that there’s so much discussion means that the series is of great interest to many people. That’s why these controversies are being amplified.”
He added, “If this wasn’t a well-loved project or if it was something unfamiliar, it wouldn’t have garnered this level of attention. In that sense, I take it as a positive sign that the project is receiving so much focus.”
The interview also touched on controversies involving Squid Game 2 co-stars Park Sung-hoon and Park Gyu-young. Regarding these issues, Lee commented briefly, “These are individual activities. I don’t think it’s my place to say anything.” His measured response drew praise online, with comments such as “Truly a seasoned actor” and “Wise and composed.”
Background on the Controversy
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk of Squid Game 2 expressed his displeasure in a December 2 interview about a parody linked to the series. “It’s upsetting. I know similar parodies, including adult content versions, were created overseas during Squid Game Season 1. Since they originate from abroad, it’s hard to stop them, and it’s truly frustrating as it completely distorts the meaning of the work,” he said.
He continued, “I haven’t yet discussed this issue with Park Sung-hoon. From what I’ve heard, someone sent him the photo, and that led to the incident. I’d like to know how it happened.”
The controversy began when Park Sung-hoon uploaded an image on Instagram, which appeared to be a still from an adult parody of Squid Game 2. Although he deleted the post shortly after, the image had already spread online. Park later issued a tearful apology, but the backlash persisted, leading to his decision to step down from his upcoming tvN series, The Tyrant’s Chef.
Some netizens have argued, “Park Sung-hoon made a mistake, but this response feels excessive.”
Meanwhile, Park Gyu-young faced criticism for sharing a photo on Instagram that seemed to reveal plot details about Squid Game 3, sparking a spoiler controversy.